the genuine article; the person or thing as represented. This
phrase originated in Scotland as the real Mackay and referred to people and things of the highest
quality, and in
particular to a
brand of whiskey. Later, in America, the
phrase was used in
reference to a n outstanding boxer by the name of
McCoy, retaining its
basic meaning of "the real thing."
—Melbourne Congress Approved Glossary (2.4.92)